But having taken his position, Jasper determined to adhere to it, and
brave all consequences.
While Claire was yet seated at the breakfast-table on the next
morning, word was brought that a gentleman was in the parlour and
wished to see him.
On entering the parlour, he found there a man of exceedingly ill
appearance, both as to countenance and apparel.
"My name is Martin," said this person--"though you do not, I presume,
know me."
Claire answered that he was to him an entire stranger.
"I have," said the man, speaking in a low, confidential tone of voice,
"became cognisant of certain facts, which it much concerns you, or at
least your adopted daughter, Fanny Elder, to know."
For a few moments, Claire was overcome with surprise.
"Concerns Fanny Elder to know! What do you mean, sir?"
"Precisely what I say. There has been a great fraud committed; and I
know all the ins and the outs of it!"
"By whom?" asked Claire.
"Ah!" replied the visitor, "that we will come to after a while."
"Upon whom, then?"
"Upon the estate of Ruben Elder, the father of your adopted daughter."
Not liking either the man's appearance or manner, Claire said, after a
moment's reflection--
"Why have you called to see me?"
"To give the information I have indicated--provided, of course, that
you desire to have it.
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